Exciting news for Bali travelers! Vietnam Airlines has announced the launch of a direct round-trip service between Ho Chi Minh City and Bali’s Denpasar, making it even easier for tourists to visit the Island of the Gods. With Bali consistently ranking among the world’s top travel destinations, this new route is set to enhance connectivity and attract even more visitors to its shores.
This new route is set to enhance connectivity and attract even more visitors to its shores.
Direct Flights to Bali From June 2025
Starting from June 1, 2025, Vietnam Airlines will operate direct flights between Ho Chi Minh City and Bali four times a week on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. By July, the airline will increase service to a daily schedule, offering even greater convenience. These flights, operated on the Airbus A321, will ensure a smooth and comfortable journey, reinforcing Bali’s status as Southeast Asia’s premier holiday destination. This new route marks Vietnam Airlines’ second service between Vietnam and Indonesia, bringing the total weekly flights between the two nations to 14.
Bali’s Booming Tourism Market
Bali continues to break tourism records, with 2025 projected to be its busiest year yet. In 2024 alone, over 800,000 passengers traveled between Indonesia and Vietnam—a 61% increase compared to pre-pandemic figures. The addition of this direct flight comes at the perfect time as Bali welcomes travelers from across the globe, further solidifying its reputation as a must-visit paradise.
Bali as a Gateway to Vietnam’s Beach Paradise
For those looking to extend their island getaway, this new route offers seamless access to Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s most talked-about beach destination. Often called the ‘Hawaii of Vietnam,’ Phu Quoc is now the fifth-fastest-growing travel hotspot in Southeast Asia. With a quick and affordable one-hour flight from Ho Chi Minh City, Bali travelers can now combine their stay with an extended beach retreat in Vietnam.
Tourists can opt for a short layover in Ho Chi Minh City, taking in its vibrant culture, before continuing their journey to Phu Quoc. This increased connectivity allows for a richer, multi-destination vacation experience, effortlessly blending Bali’s cultural charm with Vietnam’s tropical allure.
Strengthening Bali’s International Links
This expansion follows a strategic partnership between Vietnam Airlines and Indonesia’s national carrier, Garuda Indonesia. In October 2024, both airlines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation, including joint marketing efforts, expanded codeshare agreements, and potential shared services such as aircraft leasing and cargo operations.
Garuda Indonesia’s President and CEO, Irfan Setiaputra, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating the collaboration marks a significant milestone in strengthening regional connectivity and enhancing travel experiences for passengers across Southeast Asia. This alliance further supports Bali’s goal of becoming a top-tier international travel hub.
Bali Airport Expands Its Reach
I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport continues to expand its global network. Just last week, Indonesia’s TransNusa Airline launched a direct route from Bali to Guangzhou, China, with seamless connections to Perth, Australia. This new link provides travelers with even more international options, reinforcing Bali’s position as a key transit point in the region.
Currently, Bali Airport serves 63 routes across 54 airlines, including 40 international routes connecting the island to 19 different countries. The rapid expansion of Bali’s flight network reflects the island’s growing influence as a top global tourism destination.
Bali’s Future as a Southeast Asian Travel Hub
With the launch of Vietnam Airlines’ Bali-Ho Chi Minh City flights, the Island of the Gods continues to strengthen its connectivity with the rest of the region. Whether travelers are seeking a cultural escape, a tropical beach retreat, or a mix of both, this new route makes multi-country adventures more accessible than ever. As Bali’s tourism industry continues to soar, enhanced flight services will play a crucial role in shaping the future of travel to and from the island.
